Car accidents on major highways can be catastrophic and even deadly. While there are many factors that can contribute to these accidents, there are some common causes that drivers should be aware of. Put together by a car accident lawyer (https://embrylawfirm.com/practice/douglasville-car-accident-lawyer/), this article discusses the 10 most common causes of car accidents on major highways.
Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, or even putting on makeup while driving. It only takes a few seconds of distraction to cause a serious accident.
Speeding: Speeding is another common cause of car accidents. Drivers who exceed the speed limit are more likely to lose control of their vehicle, especially in bad weather conditions. It also reduces the amount of time they have to react to unexpected situations.
Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous. It impairs a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and react to situations on the road.
Reckless Driving: Reckless driving includes actions such as weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and not signaling when changing lanes. These actions can be dangerous and cause accidents.
Fatigue: Driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving while under the influence. It can cause a driver to fall asleep at the wheel or react slower to unexpected situations.
Bad Weather: Bad weather such as rain, snow, and fog can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. It’s important to slow down and exercise caution when driving in bad weather conditions.
Tailgating: Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle, can be dangerous. It reduces the amount of time a driver has to react to unexpected situations and can cause a rear-end collision.
Failure to Yield: Failure to yield to other vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists can cause serious accidents. It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and follow traffic laws.
Improper Lane Changes: Improper lane changes, such as failing to signal or not checking blind spots, can cause accidents. Drivers should always check their surroundings and use signals when changing lanes.
Vehicle Malfunction: Vehicle malfunctions such as faulty brakes or blown tires can cause accidents. It’s important to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle to ensure it’s in good condition.
In conclusion, there are many common causes of car accidents on major highways. As a driver, it’s important to be aware of these causes and take steps to prevent them. This includes following traffic laws, avoiding distractions, and being aware of your surroundings. By doing so, you can help prevent accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
